Poldark has arrived in the US, with the launch of the series causing a new audience to fall for the charms of Aidan Turner – and for the beauty of the Cornish coast.

PBS has begun broadcasting the BBC period drama, accompanied by a Vanity Fair profile that described Turner as “the official Mr Darcy of the 2015 summer season”.

One website asked: “Is it hot in here or are you just watching Poldark?” and noted that the actor was "hunked out to the max".

The Variety reviewer referred to Turner’s physique, asking: “Who knew there were ab exercises in the 18th century?”

In the New York Times, the reviewer gently poked fun at the character of Ross Poldark, calling him "the noblest, hottest, most down-to-earth hero who ever rallied the troops or scythed a field shirtless and in slow motion".

The reaction on Twitter was as predicted.

The original 1975 series of Poldark, starring Robin Ellis, was a major hit for the PBS Masterpiece strand.

Rebecca Eaton, Masterpiece’s executive producer, said the show would appeal to US audiences young and old.

“It’s a known title for those who have watched Masterpiece. The nature of the story of a dashing hero and a love triangle is appealing to younger viewers too,” she said.